Episodi

  • What a question. Pete and Ben know how we all can wrestle with trusting God. When it comes to what we need and ask for, how much should we expect? Using our finances as an example of God's provision, Ben and Pete turn to the Bible, personal experiences and observed outcomes to examine the pointy end of reliance, faith and resources.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • You are going to want to take notes. Pete provides plenty of ways to cut costs – by letting us know what we should be auditing every year (or more often).

    Key Takeaways:

    Annual financial checkups are essential for effective money management and should involve reviewing all expenses and bills.

    Proactively asking for better prices or researching provider alternatives can lead to significant savings without sacrificing quality.

    Understanding the importance of balancing time versus potential financial savings is crucial for effective personal finance management.

    Creating a “financial toolkit” can help structure the processes needed to make informed financial decisions regularly.

    Complacency can harm financial health; staying informed and active in challenging existing costs regularly is beneficial.

    Notable Quotes:

    "You can't correct it if you don't check it."

    "If you care about where your money goes and what you're spending on, you should check your bills at least annually."

    "A bit like going to the doctor, you're hopefully healthy and eating healthy [...] once a year you might go to the doctor and say, how am I really doing?"

    "I've never seen anybody go, 'You know what, just for hanging around here's a discount.' You don't get anything without asking."

    "You need to look at the bills, not just pay them."

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Ever been on hold with a call centre about a financial issue that you didn't create? When you finally get through, did things get better – or worse? Our special guest, influencer Jordana Brown ("That British Girl"), had a stressful situation with Centrelink that went viral. She tells Pete and Ben about trying to navigate bureaucracy, standing up for what's right and how faith and kindness improve terrible exchanges.

    Jordana Brown is an influential social media personality known as "That British Girl" on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Before becoming an influencer, Jordana worked extensively in the production field, spending over 15 years behind the camera in a major UK church. Jordana currently hosts the Morning Wake-up Show on Salt1065 on Australia’s Sunshine Coast.

    Key Takeaways:

    Jordana Brown's Journey: Discover how Jordana moved from behind the scenes in production to becoming a prominent influencer and radio host. Navigating Bureaucracy: Learn about Jordana's challenging experience with Centrelink, highlighting the importance of perseverance and clarity in dealing with life admin. The Role of Empathy: Maintaining politeness and empathy – even in frustrating circumstances – can lead to resolution and change. Faith in Adversity: Explore how Jordana's Christian faith provided comfort and guidance during extensive struggles with public services. Financial Awareness: Gain insights into overcoming emotional spending and the benefits of seeking professional financial advice.

    Notable Quotes:

    "I became an accidental influencer. I've always worked behind the camera and just started randomly creating videos." "The one thing I'll have to say as an influencer—the amount of trolling I get – [but] I try to remember they are human as well." "The older I get, the more I think I'm empathetic." "From the responses from the video, it was kindness. So, yes, my takeaway is: Be kind."

    Resources:

    That British Girl on Instagram: @thejordanagrace

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Why do we pay tax? Should we? How much? The Bible instructs about tax? Welcome to the Tax Episode you have been waiting for and it's finally arrived. Applause.

    Key Takeaways:

    Taxes are the financial backbone which support essential government services such as schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.

    The Australian tax system is progressive – higher-income earners pay proportionally more. This allocation of resources from those who can afford to contribute more can be viewed as a fair system.

    Optimising tax payments through eligible deductions and exemptions is encouraged.

    The distinction between high earners and rich individuals is crucial, particularly in discussions about tax equity and avoidance.

    From a Christian perspective, paying taxes is viewed as a civic duty aligned with scriptural teachings which emphasise honesty and respect for governing authorities.

    Notable Quotes:

    "Taxes are the price we need to pay to live in the kind of world that we want." - Pete Burrows

    "A fair amount is what's correct... calculated within the laws." - Pete Burrows

    "I think tax is a privilege." - Pete Burrows

    "The Bible strongly indicates that paying taxes is necessary, 'giving to Caesar what is Caesar's'." - Ben McEachen

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • We know. You can't hardly wait for Season 6. It will drop in November 2024! Before that, listen to this awesome episode from Season 1! To keep helping us to get the most out of our Christmas budget, Pete and Ben offered a tonne of top tips. Listen in again or for the first time to this early Christmas gift that keeps on giving.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Click here for the 'Smarter with Money' handout that you can use to help your household

    Just like you and me, we've got burning questions to ask Pete so we could be one step closer to making sense out of the everyday money matters. We've cherry picked 10 questions (with one BONUS) for you. Press play now to hear Pete's "Smarter with Money" Q&A sesh.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Click here for the 'Smarter with Money' handout that you can use to help your household

    In this bonus episode before Season 6 drops, Pete Burrows dives into practical money tips and traps. Press play now to hear Pete's "Smarter with Money" session from Pittwater Anglican, Sydney, this month. Pete covered the importance of budgeting, saving habits, and financial planning. He shared valuable insights on setting financial goals, managing expenses, and the benefits of early financial education.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • In this episode, Ben and Pete are joined by Hayson and Nikki Lo, hosts of the Money Matrimony podcast. Hayson and Nikki share their own experience with navigating household finances, as they took time and effort to find a more united approach. They want to help other couples with communicating better about money matters.

    Key Takeaways:

    Open Communication: Regular, honest conversations about daily expenses and financial goals strengthen marital relationships.

    Joint Accounts: Combining finances fosters transparency and shared responsibility, ensuring both partners are involved in financial decisions.

    Importance of Contentment: Teaching children about contentment and gratitude, regardless of financial status, helps ground them in healthy financial principles.

    Role of Faith: Understanding that all resources come from God and striving to be good stewards impacts how money is managed and prioritised.

    Balancing Act: Regular assessment of goals is necessary as balancing career aspirations and family time remains a constant challenge.

    Notable Quotes:

    Hayson: "The way that you view money, the way that you view the language around money, it's so important that it's about 'we' and not 'I'."

    Nikki: "We are focusing more on the relational side of it, because a lot of finance podcasts involve getting rich and finding financial freedom – which is important – but we want to emphasise not making money an idol."

    Hayson: "Having good communication and honest communication, even about our financial mistakes, helps foster a healthier relationship."

    Nikki: "It's also seeing the value in each other's contributions, whether financial or non-financial, to help bring about those important conversations and communications."

    Hayson: "We want our kids to learn contentment, to be content whether they have a lot or a little, and to always be thankful to God."

    Listen now to Money Matrimony with Hayson and Nikki.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    Cozy Fizz Explained: Or how the rising cost of living impacts luxury items and discretionary spending.

    Wants vs Needs: Working out what is essential.

    Economic Pressures: Small businesses, particularly in niche markets, must consider the particular sting of inflation and other financial factors.

    Strategic Spending: Tips for managing finances by balancing quality purchases with affordability and necessity.

    Notable Quotes:

    "The more money you spend on vanity, the less money you've got to spend on humanity." - Pete Burrows

    "It doesn’t cost that much more to make a fancy handbag. It’s just the name on it." - Pete Burrows

    "Everybody wants to get something that’s a bit different, a bit unusual, and that comes out in people’s drinking tastes." - Pete Burrows

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Everything you need to know about starting out in stocks. Our special guest is Joe Youssef, Chief Investment Officer and Head of Distribution with Two Harbours Asset Management. You can learn more about Joe on LinkedIn.

    Key Takeaways:

    Understanding Shares: Shares represent ownership in a company. When private companies go public, they offer shares that anyone can buy, turning shareholders into partial owners.

    Importance of Liquidity: The stock market offers liquidity, allowing investors to buy and sell shares quickly, unlike properties or term deposits which are less flexible.

    Educational Emphasis: Joe Youssef stresses the importance of education in investing. Investors should thoroughly understand what they are investing in to make informed decisions.

    Ethical Investing: Ethical investing is becoming increasingly prominent. Investors often choose not to invest in sectors like gambling, tobacco, or certain pharmaceuticals based on personal or religious beliefs.

    Long-term Strategy: Effective investing requires patience and a long-term perspective. Joe highlights the need to weather short-term market fluctuations and focus on long-term growth.

    Notable Quotes:

    Joe Youssef: "The definition of true investment is to buy an asset with the view of holding it and letting it appreciate steadily over time."

    Pete Burrows: "It’s a flexible way to make money
 the very transparency of the share market is what scares people about it."

    Joe Youssef: "Historically, no market has generated the most capital returns as well as income for investors than the stock market."

    Joe Youssef: "Education is key and then have the patience to see that through."

    Ben McEachen: "Should I align my faith with what I invest in?"

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    Difference Between Redundancy and Retrenchment: Redundancy is a job role being removed. Retrenchment is more personal, related to your job performance.

    Immediate Actions: If you are made redundant, start looking for new jobs ASAP, consult financial professionals, and consider budgeting your redundancy payment as a wage.

    Tax: Understand the tax-free components of redundancy payments. Where possible, time redundancy to maximise tax benefits.

    Psychological Impact: Redundancy can deeply affect your identity and emotional well-being. Seek support and aim to view it as an opportunity rather than judgment.

    Financial Planning: Consider paying off high-interest debts, topping up superannuation, or investing redundancy payments to ensure financial stability.

    Notable Quotes:

    "Retrenchment is generally more specific to a person, while positions get made redundant." - Pete Burrows

    "I've seen some clients get made redundant and then after some time, say it was the best thing that happened to them." - Pete Burrows

    "It's important to think of redundancy payments as wages and not just spend it all at once." - Pete Burrows

    "Redundancy seems more commonplace in recent times." - Ben McEachen

    "It's nothing personal from your employer, and it also isn’t any kind of punishment or judgment by God. It’s a fact of life." - Pete Burrows

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    Faith and Generosity: Danniebelle's generous upbringing has shaped her approach to money. Any time she can show generosity, Danniebelle sees that as success.

    Struggles in Sydney: Living in the second-most unaffordable city in the world, Danniebelle shares how financial strain was compounded by health issues, unemployment and worry.

    Journey Through Darkness: Danniebelle recommends wise counsel, professional healthcare advice, and spiritual re-engagement to help navigate out of dark periods.

    Faith, Not Finances: Rather than continue to strive for financial security, Danniebelle came to trust in God’s provision - no matter her circumstances.

    The Power of God's Word: I Corinthians 10:13 has provided Danniebelle with comfort and resilience, reaffirming that God never pushes us beyond our limits.

    Notable Quotes:

    "It's easy to slip into the depths of the depression of it, but actually [I found it was about] not letting yourself go there and turning to God's word..." – Danniebelle Whippy

    "I'm just going to get my walk right with God... and things started to change in my financial state." – Danniebelle Whippy

    "It's trusting in him that he will provide for you." – Danniebelle Whippy

    "He’ll never let you be pushed past your limit. He’ll always be there to help you come through it." – Danniebelle Whippy

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    Budgeting: Create a budget and stick to it, ideally making it a rolling budget to keep track of your finances monthly.

    Use Money-Saving Apps: Leverage apps to compare prices and save on essentials like fuel or groceries.

    Pay Off Loans Strategically: Aim to pay off loans and bills more frequently to reduce interest.

    Community Resources: Utilize free resources like libraries to save on entertainment and educational needs.

    Sell Unused Items: Regularly declutter and sell items you no longer need to free up space and add to your savings.

    Notable Quotes:

    "Don’t spend more than you earn and actually have a budget." — Pete Burrows

    "Convenience comes at a cost." — Ben McEachen

    "Use an app that can help you save, like the petrol apps." — Ben McEachen

    "It's free to ask. There is no downside to asking for a discount." — Pete Burrows

    "Make your own lunch. Retail food can be quite expensive." — Pete Burrows

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Do we really need a financial planner? How could anyone plan my money better than myself? They're charging a fee??! Joining us is financial planner Hamish Ferguson, founder and director of Vison Newcastle.

    Key Takeaways:

    Financial Planning's Core Value: Financial planners like Hamish Ferguson emphasize both technical skills and relational abilities to offer holistic financial guidance.

    Client-Specific Solutions: Effective financial planning is highly personalized, addressing specific client goals and circumstances.

    Early Engagement: Engaging with a financial planner early in life can set a strong financial foundation and mitigate future financial risks.

    Fee Transparency: A good financial planner provides clear and upfront fee structures, ensuring clients understand the value and cost of services rendered.

    Relational Skills Importance: Beyond technical expertise, the ability to build strong client relationships and communicate effectively is crucial in financial planning.

    Notable Quotes:

    "There are definitely clients that after the first meeting, I would say, look, I don't think you're quite ready for financial advice at this point in time." - Hamish Ferguson

    "The goal is different to almost the tools we use. And what I typically say to people is, you know, the stock market property, super, our home, at times, they're all tools." - Hamish Ferguson

    "It's not always about returns, it's about peace of mind and knowing that everything is right and you're on track." - Hamish Ferguson

    Resources:

    Vision Property & Finance: Vision Property & Finance

    Money Smart Website: Money Smart Website

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Past Ep - Making Housing More Affordable

    Past Ep - The Blessing and Curse of Inheritance

    Past Ep - Mastering Money Mindset: Balancing Logic and Emotion

    Key Takeaways:

    Changing Conversation on Housing: In Australia, perceptions and discussions have drastically changed, necessitating a new approach to homeownership versus renting.

    "Rent money is dead money"????: Challenging long-held beliefs, renting can offer significant financial benefits, such as lower costs and greater flexibility.

    Buying Costs: The interest part of mortgages is equivalent to 'dead money,' similar to rent, a reality many overlook when evaluating homeownership.

    Investment Alternatives: With the high costs associated with buying property, exploring alternative investment options and savings strategies is crucial.

    Future of Housing: The solution to the housing crisis lies in building more homes, rethinking government policies, and adapting to demographic changes and economic demands.

    Notable Quotes:

    Ben McEachen: "What has happened to the Australian dream of owning your own home?"

    Pete Burrows: "Interest on your home loan is just the price of renting money off the bank."

    Ben McEachen: "Renting was something you did as a stepping stone towards buying your own house. That's totally changed now."

    Pete Burrows: "If parents were going to help you, it would have been to help you get into a house, but now we need to rethink our priorities."

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    The importance of understanding the psychology of money and how early financial experiences impact adult behavior.

    Logical financial management strategies versus emotion-driven spending, and the significance of budgeting and disciplined spending.

    The role of Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in assisting individuals to navigate out of debt and build sustainable financial habits.

    The profound sense of relief and emotional uplift that comes from financial independence and being debt-free.

    Incorporating biblical principles into financial planning to promote long-term stability and generosity.

    Notable Quotes:

    Glenn Solway: "Severe discipline now is empathy with your future self."

    Glenn Solway: "Money is a great servant, but a terrible master."

    Glenn Solway: "I'm now more generous than I ever was because I can give out of the surplus."

    Glenn Solway: "If I don't have the money to buy something, I don't buy it. I save money, and then I use the money I've saved to buy that cash, and I own it."

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Key Takeaways:

    Understanding Stage 3 Tax Cuts: Pete clarifies that on average, individuals will see an additional $20 to $70 per week, depending on their income bracket.

    Impact on Different Earners: Middle to high income earners benefit from these tax cuts, with varying degrees based on income levels.

    Historical Context: The episode revisits Stage 1 and Stage 2 tax cuts and the introduction of the Low and Medium Income Tax Offset (the Lamington).

    Economic Implications: With more disposable income in hand, these tax cuts are likely to have inflationary effects.

    Actionable Advice: Pete suggests conscious utilization of the tax savings by planning for debt reduction, investments, or smart spending.

    Notable Quotes:

    "It's much easier to talk to clients about tax if the next word out of your mouth is cuts." - Pete Burrows

    "Know what the extra tax saving is and make them work for you." - Pete Burrows

    "Inflation is higher than what the Reserve Bank would like, and the country would like to see it lowered a little bit." - Pete Burrows

    "If you did have high interest rate debts, I would argue to try and pay extra off them." - Pete Burrows

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    Always love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • BONUS EPISODE!

    Ben asks all the smart questions and Pete gives some advice on Tax Returns.

    Key Takeaways:

    Year-Round Tax Planning: Starting tax planning as early as July 1 ensures better organization and maximized deductions.

    Utilize Technology: Software and tools can simplify tracking expenses and managing tax returns, making processes easier compared to last-minute rushing.

    Ethical Tax Practices: Christian values underscore the importance of honesty and integrity in tax reporting, reflecting broader societal benefits.

    Review Personal Finances: Use tax season as an opportunity to review and reassess your overall financial position, not just for tax purposes.

    Understanding Deductions: Be thorough with deductions but prioritize accuracy over maximization to avoid potential audits and penalties.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    Always love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • BONUS EPISODE!

    Ben asks all the smart questions and Pete unpacks Budget 2024 in 15 minutes!

    Key Takeaways:

    The 2024 Budget offers immediate financial relief for individuals through tax cuts, HECS debt readjustments, and energy bill rebates.

    There is an emphasis on sustaining economic measures that will not exacerbate inflation, keeping in mind the impact on the Reserve Bank's interest rate decisions.

    Long-term considerations include structural deficits due to ongoing commitments and whether future tax increases or service reductions might be necessary.

    The government's forward-facing plans, such as the Future Made in Australia initiative, aim to shift the economic focus towards sustainable and clean energy.

    The complexity of government budgeting is compared to personal finance management, highlighting the need for a balance between current benefits and future stability.

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    Always love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Special guest is Nelson Hsieh, a New Testament expert with Tyndale at Cambridge who has a detailed interest in digital currency. Pete and Ben ask the basics about cryptocurrencies before hearing more about Nelson's take on "Would Jesus buy Bitcoin?" Nelson explores issues of accessibility and control of currencies, as well as challenging assumptions about who can create what we tender.

    Nelson S Hsieh is a Research Associate in New Testament Text and Language at Tyndale House, Cambridge. He is a Graduate Student, Systematic Theology, of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

    More from Nelson Hsieh:

    Should Christians Condemn Bitcoin or Embrace it? (Sola Network)

    Discover more on topics raised by Nelson:

    Women in Middle-East accessing bank accounts How many computers mining Bitcoin? Refugees flee warfare carrying Bitcoin (also, here). Alexei Navalny receives Bitcoin donations to counter Vladimir Putin. Notes no longer convertible into gold – Australia

    Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here!

    Always love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode.

    Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia.

    Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia.

    Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.